Zimbabwe Moves to Abolish Death Penalty Amid Mixed Reactions

The Zimbabwean government's decision to abolish the death penalty has been met with both praise and criticism, reflecting a nation divided on the issue.

• Zimbabwe's Cabinet has announced a decision to abolish the death penalty, a move hailed by human rights advocates but criticized by some citizens and officials.
• The decision, made after countrywide consultations, aims to replace capital punishment with lengthy sentences for aggravated murders.
• Amnesty International and U.N. Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor have expressed support for the abolition, highlighting its alignment with modern human rights standards.
• Critics argue that abolishing the death penalty could lead to an increase in crime, citing the country's rising crime rate and economic decline.
• The bill to officially ban the death penalty is expected to pass with support from the ruling Zanu-PF party and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

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